Includes video report
After almost two weeks of remaining silent, the winners of the $3.3 million Arizona Lottery "The Pick" jackpot claimed their winnings.
Robert Brito and his wife, Anna, of Phoenix, said they waited to claim the money because they wanted to get their finances in order and prepare to responsibly handle their windfall.
"We have invested it, and it will go to a trust fund for the whole family," Robert said.
The Britos, who were reserved in revealing details about their lives, said they had no plans to immediately spend any of the money. Robert said he intends to keep his job as a public servant.
"We knew that it was the right thing to do for us," Robert said. "We just want to stay on schedule, stick with our plans and enjoy life. Life is too short."
Robert said he plays the lottery about twice a week, for the Wednesday and Saturday drawings, and has won small amounts before.
"It's just a chance that we may be blessed, because I know that dollar that I spend, if I don't win, will bless someone else," Robert said.
When he heard the winning numbers, 9-13-22-29-36-38, Robert said he studied his ticket and gave thanks to God. He said he asked his daughter to look over the ticket and make sure it was the winner, and when they knew it was real, they called Anna and told her the news.
The Britos said they were shocked and amazed when they realized they were winners, and said the whole experience has been very humbling.
Robert and Anna said they only announced their winnings to close friends and family, whom they said have been very supportive and excited for them.
"We have been blessed with wonderful friends and family," Robert said.
Robert called the whole experience "surreal" and said he needs to remind himself that it all really happened.
As far as the money goes, the Britos said they feel more comfortable financially, but just want to "take it one day at a time."
Robert said throughout the experience he has been very grateful for the blessings he has received.
"I just want to say thank you to Arizona and thank you to the lottery," Robert said.
VIDEO: Watch the press report
Congratulations to the Brito family!!
The couple looks happy...that's what I'm talking 'bout!
Ronnie316's alter ego?. Congrats.
They seem to have everything all thought out and planned. Congrats to them on their win!
"Robert called the whole experience "surreal" and said he needs to remind himself that it all really happened."
Webster: having the quality of a dream...... now that's the Truth!!
Congrats!
Congratulation Mr & Mrs Brito
Congratulations to them!! But wouldn't it be nice if these articles told us whether the ticket was a quick pick or self pick, and if a self pick, how they picked the numbers?
Nice folks, God Bless 'em.
There probably was an article that gave that information; the Arizona State Lottery website had this:
The Pick
Ticket sold at:
QuikTrip, 6702 W. Glendale Ave., Glendale
Robert Brito, Phoenix, purchased one Quick Pick® for The Pick™ April 26 drawing. He didn’t check his numbers until the following Wednesday morning. After checking his numbers and discovering he had won the $3,300,000 jackpot, he went to work. Robert didn’t tell his wife until he came home that evening. In fact, his wife could tell something wonderful had happened just from the look on his face.
Robert waited until everyone in the family was assembled so he could tell them the great news. After the couple had time to calm down, they began to make plans to meet with the family’s financial advisor before redeeming the ticket. They wanted to set up a family trust and have a solid plan for their future. The couple chose the annuity option of $2,036,016.90, payable over 30 years.
Robert is a public servant and doesn’t have a lot of spare time. However, when he does, he and his wife enjoy spending time outdoors camping and fishing. Their biggest pleasure is spending time with their family.
Robert and his wife haven’t had time to make any other plans. However, they might possibly take a short vacation.
His final comment was, “Thank you, Arizona Lottery.”
Congratulations, Britos, on your tidy win of Arizona Lottery Headquarters' annual check of $110K, pre-taxed!
Great Blessing, look like a great couple! I' am glad they gave the first glory to YHWH GOD from everything stems. God Bless them and the Creator.